Summary

As Christians, our challenge is to live in this world without becoming worldly. Someday the world and everything in it will pass away; however, the Word will never pass away. Therefore, we must train ourselves in the Word, just as soldiers train for combat. Satan is constantly seeking whom he may devour in these last days. If we are not living holy, we will be defeated by temptation.

1. We already have the victory over every test and trial—even death (1 Corinthians 15:55-57, AMP ).
   1. “ But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory—making us conquerors—through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1Corinthians 15:57, AMP).
      1. Thanksgiving opens the door for God to get involved in our situations.
   2. We must expect to experience victory, knowing God will deliver us out of bondage.
      1. We must think on a higher level and begin thanking God before we see the victory.
      2. While we are doing what His Word says, we must understand that our labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58, AMP).
      3. During hard times, it may seem as if our obedience is in vain.
   3. “ But thanks be to God, Who in Christ always leads us in triumph—as trophies of Christ’s victory” (2 Corinthians 2:14, AMP).
      1. When we go through trials and overcome them, we are trophies of Christ’s work.

2. “ Beloved, do not be amazed and bewildered at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test your quality” (1 Peter 4:12, AMP ).
   1. Many times, when we go through hard times, we believe our trouble is unique.
      1. There is nothing new under the sun.
      2. Therefore, we must be courageous enough to go to a higher level in our faith.
      3. When we are victorious in our lives, we can encourage others to be victorious as well.
      4. We are blessed when we persevere through temptation (James 1:12, AMP).
   2. Our blessed life includes the ability to withstand temptation.
      1. Our primary example is Jesus. He gained victory over the temptations from Satan by using the Word against his evil tactics.
      2. Likewise, today we can do the same. We can speak the Word when we are tempted by the enemy.

3. To experience the victory in the midst of temptation:
   1. You must know that this is your specific time of temptation. Everyone will have his or her evil day.
   2. You must be aware that when you are being tempted, it is an attack of the enemy.
      1. Be well-balanced and cautious at all times. The enemy is always looking for someone he can devour (1 Peter 5:8-9, AMP).
   3. You must know that the battle is won or lost in your mind.
   4. You must know the Word of God and have daily fellowship with Him to experience His strength and victory during temptation.

Scripture References